Africa-Press – Uganda. Uganda has opened a new front in its trade and religious diplomacy by seeking stronger partnerships in Halal certification during a high-level Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) meeting held in Riyadh.
The Ugandan delegation, led by Musafiri Richard, Director of the Uganda National Accreditation Services (UGANAS), participated in the three-day summit aimed at enhancing compliance with Halal standards in accordance with Islamic dietary laws.
The event, hosted at the Accreditation Center in Riyadh, brought together officials from GCC member states and key partners to discuss strengthening cross-border accreditation cooperation.
Among the Ugandan delegates was the Secretary General of the Uganda Muslim Supreme Council (UMSC), Abbas Muluubya Ssekyanzi, whose presence underscored the religious and technical importance of Halal certification for Ugandan exports, especially in the Gulf region.
Officials from the Ministries of Health and Trade also took part in the meetings, highlighting Uganda’s broader agenda to align its consumables particularly food and pharmaceutical products with globally recognised Halal standards to expand access to Muslim markets.
The delegation engaged with senior Saudi officials, including Eng. Mohammad A. Al Jeaid, Director General and Head of Strategic Management, and Mr. Brahim Houla, Manager of Saudi Accreditation Services, to explore collaborative frameworks.
While in Riyadh, the Ugandan team visited the Ugandan Embassy where they were received by Ambassador Isaac Sebulime and Deputy Ambassador Sheikh Sulaiman Gugwa.
Discussions at the embassy centered on deepening Uganda Saudi Arabia cooperation in standards development, trade facilitation, and religious diplomacy.
This marks a strategic step for Uganda in formalising Halal certification to boost trade and meet religious compliance, with officials signalling intent to establish stronger ties with Gulf accreditation bodies.
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